The Varandha Ghat stretch on National Highway No. 965 DD, between Rajewadi and the Raigad district boundary, has been declared closed for all types of vehicular movement until September 30, 2025.

District Collector Kishan Jawale issued this official notification in view of the monsoon season and the Indian Meteorological Department’s (IMD) high alert warning for heavy rainfall in the region.

As per the notification, the closure applies to both heavy and light vehicles to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of travelers during the monsoon, when landslides and road collapses are a frequent risk in the ghat section. The decision follows a request from the Executive Engineer of the National Highway Division, Pen.

For the convenience of commuters, alternative routes have been suggested:

For Pune-bound traffic: Rajewadi Phata–Mahad–Mangaon–Nijampur–Tamhini Ghat–Mulshi–Pirangut–Pune.

For Kolhapur-bound traffic: Rajewadi Phata–Poladpur–Khed–Chiplun–Patan–Karad–Kolhapur.

Authorities have urged motorists to cooperate and use the recommended routes during this closure period to avoid inconvenience and ensure safety.